From Sustainability to Equity: The Green Hospital Model for Climate-Resilient Healthcare

Background

Healthcare systems significantly contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, particularly in urban settings. Green hospital initiatives at Fondazione Policlinico Campus Bio-Medico are increasingly recognized as key strategies to enhance climate resilience while improving public health and equity.

Methods

We conducted a descriptive evaluation of sustainability interventions implemented at the Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico in Rome, Italy, based on 2024 sustainability reporting. Interventions included energy efficiency measures, renewable energy production, waste reduction strategies, and socially oriented access-to-care programmes. Environmental and organizational indicators were analysed to assess climate and health co-benefits.

Results

Approximately 57% of total electricity consumption was covered by on-site renewable energy production, with a transition toward 100% renewable energy planned. Mixed packaging waste decreased by 31%, reflecting improved resource management. In parallel, social initiatives enhanced healthcare access, with over 141,000 services delivered under reduced-cost schemes, supporting vulnerable populations. Workforce indicators also highlighted gender equity, with women representing over 60% of staff and nearly half of leadership roles.

Conclusions

This experience demonstrates that green hospital strategies can generate measurable environmental benefits while strengthening health system equity and accessibility. Integrating sustainability into hospital governance may contribute to climate-resilient urban health systems, positioning healthcare institutions as key actors in the transition toward sustainable and inclusive cities.

Key messages

• Green hospital strategies can simultaneously reduce environmental impact and improve healthcare access, demonstrating strong co-benefits for climate and public health.

• Integrating sustainability into hospital governance supports more equitable, resilient urban health systems and positions healthcare institutions as leaders in the transition to sustainable cities.